Calcium Deficiency – What Can I Do?

It is possible to take food supplements with calcium, vitamin D and phosphorus. However, this should definitely be discussed with the attending physician beforehand.

Calcium is a mineral that is very important for general health and especially for bones, teeth and a normal heart rhythm. If there is a calcium deficiency, too little of this mineral is added to the body.

Calcium is also very important for muscle contractions, the nervous system, hormone production and for regulating blood pressure.

Calcium also plays an important role in muscle contraction, the transmission of messages through the nerves, and the release of hormones.

What are the symptoms of calcium deficiency ?

The symptoms of a calcium deficiency can vary widely and also depend on how large the deficiency is and what causes it.

Very rarely do symptoms appear at the beginning of the deficit. Usually these only appear when weak bones and consequently fractures occur.

Symptoms are often so mild that they go unnoticed and take years to be noticed. Often times, when symptoms are noticed, advanced osteoporosis is already in place.

Some symptoms

• Severe neck and back pain. In most cases, this can have serious consequences, especially if there are fractures in the spine area.
• Bone pain and tenderness.
• Severe fractures that can occur even with light impacts.
• The affected person becomes smaller.
• Bent posture, abnormal curvature of the spine.

Treatment of calcium deficiency

The best treatment in these cases is to replenish the body’s calcium reserves:

• As soon as you find out that you are calcium deficient, start adding calcium-rich foods to your diet. These include green leafy vegetables, beans, nuts, seafood and orange juice, among others.

• Some medications, such as diuretics, can cause calcium deficiency. In this case, consult your doctor, you should by no means act on your own. Because then you could feel worse afterwards.
• Do gentle movement exercises that aren’t too strenuous.
• Get extra calcium as well as vitamin D and phosphorus. See your doctor for advice. Under no circumstances should you self-medicate, this could have serious health consequences.